Etelcalcetide helps lower the level of parathyroid hormones to those with severe kidney disease or who are undergoing dialysis.
Etelcalcetide injection is to be given intravenously (into the vein) through the tube (blood line) that connects you to the haemodialysis machine at the end of your haemodialysis session.
Your doctor or nurse will administer this medicine for you.
Ensure that you keep all appointments with your doctor so that you do not miss any doses. Your doctor also needs to regularly monitor your response to Etelcalcetide.
Alert your doctor if you have low level of calcium in your blood as this medicine may not be suitable for you.
Do not use Etelcalcetide with other medicines used to treat high levels of parathyroid hormones, such as cinacalcet.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- heart disease
- fits or seizures
- low blood pressure
- stomach problems
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Depending on your condition, your doctor may advise you to take calcium and vitamin D supplements while you are being treated with Etelcalcetide. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
- You may need to have routine blood tests (e.g. blood calcium levels, parathyroid hormone levels) while you are being treated with Etelcalcetide. Your doctor will advise you about how often you will need to have these tests.
- Regular monitoring may be necessary for signs and symptoms of severely low calcium blood levels (e.g. numbness or tingling sensation of extremities, muscle cramps), worsening of your heart condition, and stomach ulceration.
Etelcalcetide may cause any of the following side effects: headache, nausea, vomiting, and muscle pain.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- numbness or tingling sensation of the extremities
- extreme muscle aches or cramps
- worsening heart failure
- fits or seizures
- swollen eyes, face or mouth with difficulty of breathing
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Do not use Etelcalcetide with other medicines used to treat high levels of parathyroid hormones (e.g. cinacalcet) and other medicines known to reduce blood calcium levels.
Always notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in the refrigerator, between 2-8°C. Do not allow to freeze. If frozen, Etelcalcetide will become ineffective and should not be used.
Keep in the original packaging to protect from light.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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